State waiting for validation of mobile DNA testing

Wisconsin law enforcement officials are waiting for federal authorities to validate a new tool that will make DNA analysis faster.

Rapid DNA is currently in the testing stage at various law enforcement agencies around the nation.

Post-Crescent Media reported the testing can provide results in 90 minutes from a mobile unit. DNA testing in a lab can take days or longer, depending on the case's urgency.

Brian O'Keefe, administrator of law enforcement services for the Wisconsin Department of Justice, said state officials are waiting for the U.S. Department of Justice to validate the unit.

Last week, Wisconsin lawmakers approved a law to collect DNA from anyone arrested for a felony or anyone convicted of a crime. Previously, DNA collection was limited to convicted felons and sex offenders.

Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Email us a picture of you and your pet and we'll use it in out Pet Walk segment which airs every weekday morning at 6:40. Include your name, your pet's name and where you're from. Email to petwalk@wisctv.com.